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Where to Stay in Paris

Updated: October 25, 2026
By Santorini Dave • dave@santorinidave.com

Paris Hotels: My Favorites

Where to Stay in Paris: My Recommendations

The 7th arrondissement is my favorite area for first-time visitors to Paris. The streets around Rue Cler are beautiful, the Eiffel Tower is nearby, and there are excellent cafés, bakeries, markets, and restaurants. It’s quieter and more residential than Saint-Germain or the Marais, especially in the evening. I particularly like it for families and couples. The main drawback is that you’ll need the Métro to reach some major sights, including the Louvre and Notre-Dame.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is my favorite neighborhood for cafés, restaurants, and exploring Paris on foot. It’s lively without being too hectic, with easy access to the Seine, Luxembourg Gardens, and the Latin Quarter. Hotels are expensive, but the location is hard to beat.

Le Marais is my pick for boutique shopping, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. It’s one of the most enjoyable neighborhoods for wandering, with narrow historic streets and plenty happening in the evening. For the most central sightseeing location, especially the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, and Palais Royal, stay in the 1st arrondissement.

My advice: Don’t worry about staying within walking distance of every attraction. Paris is spread out, and you’ll use the Métro regardless of where you stay. For most first-time visitors, I’d narrow the search to the 7th, Saint-Germain, Le Marais, and the 1st.

Quick Tips

  • Understand the arrondissements: Paris has 20 numbered districts. The numbers spiral outward from the center, but a lower number does not automatically mean a better location. The 7th, 11th, and parts of the 18th are excellent places to stay.
  • Right Bank vs. Left Bank: The Right Bank is north of the Seine; the Left Bank is south. These classic Paris distinctions matter less to visitors than they might suggest. You can cross the river in a few minutes. Choose your hotel based on the neighborhood, not which bank it’s on.
  • Check the exact hotel location: A hotel within a 5 to 10-minute walk of a Métro station is convenient. Check the walking route, not just the straight-line distance. In Montmartre, hills and stairs make a big difference.
  • Expect small rooms: A room under 15 square meters (160 square feet) will feel tight for two people. Check room size, air conditioning, and elevator access before booking. Older hotels sometimes have tiny lifts or stairs between the lift and the room.
  • Don’t rent a car: Walking and public transportation are easier than driving. Parking is expensive, and traffic can be slow.

Map of my favorite hotels and places to stay in Paris.
1. Hôtel des Arts • 2. Hôtel Hor • 3. Chopin • 4. Fraser Suites • 5. Grand Powers • 6. Four Seasons • 7. Hôtel du Louvre • 8. Pavillon de la Reine • 9. Pullman • 10. Cler • 11. J.K. Place • 12. Welcome • 13. Relais Christine • 14. Saint-Séverin

Best Areas to Stay in Paris

My wife and I at the Louvre in Paris.

My wife and I at the Louvre in Paris.

There is no single downtown in Paris. The Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre are in different parts of the city. The best base depends on what you want to do and the kind of neighborhood you enjoy.

  • Best for First-Time Visitors and Families: 7th Arrondissement
    My top choice for a first trip to Paris, especially with kids. Stay around Rue Cler, École Militaire, or Invalides for beautiful streets, good restaurants, and easy access to the Eiffel Tower. It’s quieter than Saint-Germain, especially at night. My favorite midrange hotel here is Cler Hotel.
  • Best for Cafés and Restaurants: Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th)
    The Paris neighborhood I most enjoy walking around. Excellent cafés, galleries, shops, and restaurants, with the Seine and Luxembourg Gardens nearby. It’s also a good choice for families who want a central location and easy access to a large park. Hotels are expensive, but the location is hard to beat. Relais Christine is a favorite.
Hôtel du Louvre near the Louvre Museum in Paris.

The Hôtel du Louvre sits across from the Louvre and steps from Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre Métro station. An excellent location for sightseeing.

  • Best for Sightseeing: 1st Arrondissement
    Stay near the Louvre or Palais-Royal for easy walks to the Tuileries, Seine, Île de la Cité, and Saint-Germain. It’s one of the most convenient locations in Paris, though hotels can be expensive and some streets are quiet after dinner. Hôtel du Louvre has an outstanding location.
  • Best for Shopping and Nightlife: Le Marais (3rd and 4th)
    Narrow streets, independent boutiques, excellent restaurants, cocktail bars, and a strong LGBTQ+ nightlife scene. The southern Marais is especially convenient for walking to Notre-Dame and the Seine. Rue des Francs-Bourgeois and Rue Vieille-du-Temple are particularly good for shopping. My luxury pick is Le Pavillon de la Reine.
  • Best for Good-Value Central Hotels: Latin Quarter (5th)
    Lively streets, bookshops, inexpensive restaurants, and several good-value hotels. The area around Saint-Michel is busy and touristy; the streets around the Panthéon and Rue Mouffetard have more of a neighborhood feel. It’s also a good choice for jazz clubs and casual nightlife. Hôtel Parc Saint-Séverin is an excellent central choice.
Hôtel de Ville Métro entrance in Paris, with Hôtel Duo nearby.

The Hôtel de Ville Métro entrance, with Hôtel Duo in the background. The Marais is particularly convenient for public transportation.

  • Best for Romance and Village Atmosphere: Montmartre (18th)
    Hilly streets, small cafés, and wonderful views. I love Montmartre, especially the quieter streets around Avenue Junot and Rue des Saules. It’s less convenient for sightseeing elsewhere, and the stairs can be tiring with luggage. Avoid hotels directly beside Sacré-Cœur or Place du Tertre if you want a peaceful stay. Hôtel des Arts is a favorite.
  • Best for Food and Bars: 11th Arrondissement
    One of the best parts of Paris for interesting restaurants, wine bars, and neighborhood nightlife. Look around Oberkampf, Charonne, Saint-Ambroise, and Bastille. Pierre Sang in Oberkampf is a good example of the neighborhood’s food scene. The 11th is less polished and has fewer major sights, but offers better value than the tourist center.
Maison Souquet boutique hotel in Paris.

Maison Souquet, near the border of South Pigalle and Montmartre, is one of our favorite boutique hotels in Paris.

  • Best for a Return Visit: South Pigalle, Montparnasse, or the 12th
    South Pigalle has excellent food shops, cafés, and nightlife around Rue des Martyrs. Montparnasse is less fashionable but offers good restaurants, transport connections, and more affordable hotels. The 12th is quieter, with the Marché d’Aligre, wine bars, and the elevated Coulée verte René-Dumont walking path. All three are better suited to visitors who have already seen the major sights.
  • For Families: The 7th is my first choice, but Saint-Germain, the Marais, and the 1st are also excellent. The Luxembourg Gardens, Place des Vosges, and Tuileries Garden give kids space to run around. For longer stays, a family suite or apartment with a kitchenette can be more useful than an expensive standard hotel room.
My boys and I along the Seine in Paris.

My boys and I playing a game along the River Seine in Paris.

  • For Department Stores: Stay near Opéra or Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th for Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann. The nearby covered passages are worth exploring, especially Passage Jouffroy, which opened in 1847.
  • Areas I Would Avoid for a First Stay: Paris is generally safe for visitors, but I wouldn’t book a hotel around Barbès-Rochechouart, Château Rouge, or parts of Goutte d’Or. These areas can be crowded and chaotic, with street dealing, petty theft, and some unpleasant streets after dark. I’d also avoid staying immediately around Gare du Nord unless you need an early train. The station is fine throughout the day, but the surrounding streets are less appealing at night.

Paris Transportation & Airport Transfers

Me at the RER station at Charles de Gaulle Airport.

The RER B station at Charles de Gaulle Airport. The train is my preferred way to reach central Paris.

The Métro is the easiest way to get around Paris. Walk between nearby sights and use the Métro for longer journeys. I rarely recommend taxis for sightseeing because traffic can be slow.

Paying for the Métro: You can tap your phone at the gates, but you must first purchase a transit ticket. You cannot simply tap a credit card or use regular Apple Pay or Google Pay as you can in London.

  • iPhone: Open Apple Wallet, add a Navigo transit card, and purchase tickets. Tap your phone at the gate to enter. No separate app is required.
  • Android: Use the Île-de-France Mobilités or Bonjour RATP app to purchase tickets and load them onto a compatible phone. Tap your phone at the gate.
  • Physical card: If you prefer not to use your phone, buy a Navigo Easy card (€2) at a station and load tickets onto it.

Paris Métro Tickets and Airport Transportation

  • Single tickets: A Metro-Train-RER ticket costs €2.55 and covers the Métro, RER, and regional trains, excluding airport rail stations. A separate Bus-Tram ticket costs €2.05.
  • Weekly pass: The all-zones Navigo Semaine costs €32.40 and covers unlimited travel from Monday through Sunday, including airport trains. It can be loaded onto a compatible phone or a Navigo Découverte card (€5, photo required). From Friday onward, weekly passes are sold for the following week.
  • Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): Take the RER B to Gare du Nord, Châtelet-Les Halles, or Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame. The journey takes approximately 35 to 45 minutes. Airport rail ticket: €14.
  • Orly Airport: Métro Line 14 connects Orly directly with central Paris. Airport rail ticket: €14.
  • Airport tickets: Regular Métro tickets do not cover CDG or Orly airport rail stations. The all-zones Navigo weekly pass covers both airport routes, but not Orlyval.

My advice: For most short visits, buy individual tickets on your phone. Consider the weekly pass if your dates fit its Monday-to-Sunday validity and you’ll use public transportation frequently, especially for airport transfers.

Best Paris Hotels by Type

Relais Christine boutique hotel in Paris.

Relais Christine is one of my favorite hotels for couples and honeymooners. The Saint-Germain location is excellent.

Our room at Cler Hotel in Paris.

Our room at Cler Hotel, my favorite midrange hotel in Paris.

Our room at Hôtel de JoBo in the Marais.

Our room at Hôtel de JoBo, a stylish boutique hotel in the Marais.

Our family suite at Gardette Park Hotel in Paris.

Our family suite at Gardette Park Hotel. A good option for families who want more space without paying luxury hotel prices.

Affordable Hôtel Chopin in Passage Jouffroy, Paris.

The charming and affordable Hôtel Chopin is inside Passage Jouffroy in the 9th arrondissement.

Le Pavillon de la Reine hotel in the Marais.

Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa is my favorite hotel in the Marais, tucked away on Place des Vosges.

Rue Cler pedestrian market street in the 7th arrondissement of Paris.

Rue Cler is one of my favorite streets in Paris and a great area for a first visit. Cler Hotel is surrounded by food shops, cafés, and restaurants.

Saint James Paris hotel exterior and gardens.

Saint James Paris is a beautiful luxury hotel in the 16th arrondissement, near Avenue Foch and the Bois de Boulogne.

The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Paris for Tourists

1. Le Marais and Beaubourg (3rd and 4th Arrondissements)

People enjoying Place des Vosges in the Marais, Paris.
Map of the Marais and Beaubourg neighborhoods in Paris.

Best for shopping, restaurants, nightlife, and boutique hotels. The Marais is one of my favorite places to stay in Paris. It’s central, full of good restaurants and independent shops, and lively well into the evening. The southern Marais around Saint-Paul and Place des Vosges is especially attractive. The northern Marais has more galleries, boutiques, and fashionable cafés.

The neighborhood includes the historic Jewish quarter, Musée Picasso, Musée Carnavalet, and the Maison de Victor Hugo. The nearby Centre Pompidou building is closed for major renovations, so don’t plan a museum visit there until it reopens.

Where to stay: I prefer the southern Marais for a first visit. It’s convenient for the Seine and Notre-Dame, with excellent restaurants nearby. Hotels are expensive, and rooms can be small. If you’re sensitive to noise, avoid rooms facing the busiest bar streets.

Hôtel Emile in the Marais, Paris.

Hôtel Emile is in the heart of the Marais, across from Saint-Paul Métro station.

2. Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement)

Flower-covered sidewalk café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris.
Map of Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris.

Best for cafés, restaurants, galleries, and walking. Saint-Germain is one of the most enjoyable neighborhoods in Paris. I love the streets around Rue de Buci, Rue de Seine, and the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. There are excellent restaurants, galleries, shops, and cafés within a few minutes’ walk.

The famous Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots are worth seeing, though both attract plenty of tourists. Oscar Wilde died in 1900 at what is now L’Hôtel. The Luxembourg Gardens are a short walk south, and the Louvre is across the river.

Where to stay: The streets between Boulevard Saint-Germain and the Seine are my favorite part of the neighborhood. Hotels are expensive, but you can walk almost everywhere. For cheaper accommodation, look just east in the Latin Quarter.

Checking in at Relais Christine in Paris.

Checking in at Relais Christine in Saint-Germain.

3. Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)

Couples dancing beside the Seine at Jardin Tino Rossi in the Latin Quarter.
Map of the Latin Quarter in Paris.

Best for good-value hotels, bookshops, and lively streets. The Latin Quarter is central and less expensive than Saint-Germain. The busiest streets near Saint-Michel are full of restaurants and souvenir shops, but the neighborhood becomes more appealing around the Panthéon, Rue Mouffetard, and Place de la Contrescarpe.

Highlights include Shakespeare and Company, the Panthéon, the Musée de Cluny, and the Jardin des Plantes. The Sorbonne is here, and the area still has a lively student atmosphere.

Where to stay: Choose the northern Latin Quarter if you want to walk to Notre-Dame and Saint-Germain. Stay closer to the Panthéon for quieter evenings. Rue de la Huchette and the streets immediately around it can be noisy late at night.

Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés beside the Seine in Paris.

Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés is on the 6th arrondissement side of the Seine, across from the Latin Quarter. Its apartments have kitchenettes, and some have river views.

4. The 7th Arrondissement

Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Map of the 7th arrondissement in Paris.

My favorite neighborhood for first-time visitors and families. The 7th has the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Les Invalides, excellent restaurants, and some of the prettiest streets in Paris. It’s upscale and residential without feeling dull.

Rue Cler is the part of the 7th I recommend most often. The pedestrian market street has food shops, cafés, and restaurants, and the surrounding streets are pleasant for walking. École Militaire and La Tour-Maubourg Métro stations are nearby. I would happily stay here for a week.

The Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Rodin Museum, and Les Invalides are all in the arrondissement, though they are spread across a fairly large area.

Where to stay: For most visitors, I prefer Rue Cler and École Militaire over the streets immediately beside the Eiffel Tower. The latter can be busy with tourists and surprisingly quiet when you’re looking for dinner. If you want a tower-view room, confirm the exact room category before booking. A hotel described as having Eiffel Tower views does not mean every room has one.

The Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel is one of the best choices for staying close to the tower, although it’s in the neighboring 15th arrondissement.

Signature Suite bedroom at J.K. Place Paris.

A Signature Suite at J.K. Place Paris, one of my favorite luxury boutique hotels.

5. South Pigalle (SoPi, 9th Arrondissement)

Shops and cafés along Rue des Martyrs in South Pigalle.
Map of South Pigalle in Paris.

Best for restaurants, bars, and a neighborhood feel. South Pigalle is one of my favorite areas for a return visit. Rue des Martyrs has excellent bakeries, cheese shops, cafés, and restaurants. The surrounding streets have small boutiques and plenty of bars.

You’re close to Montmartre without having to stay on the hill. The Musée Gustave Moreau and Musée de la Vie Romantique are worthwhile smaller museums nearby.

Where to stay: I prefer the streets around Rue des Martyrs and Saint-Georges. Hotels can be better value than in Saint-Germain or the Marais. The northern end near Boulevard de Clichy is busier and noisier, especially at night.

Red velvet bar at Maison Souquet in Paris.

The beautiful red velvet bar at Maison Souquet, a luxury boutique hotel in a former Belle Époque brothel.

6. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)

Ivy-covered house on a quiet Montmartre street.
Map of Montmartre in Paris.

Best for couples, views, and quiet streets away from the crowds. Montmartre is one of the prettiest neighborhoods in Paris. It’s also one of the most touristy around Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre. Walk a few blocks away and you’ll find some wonderful residential streets.

I especially like Avenue Junot, Rue des Saules, and the area around Lamarck-Caulaincourt. The small Clos Montmartre vineyard is a reminder of the neighborhood’s village past. The Musée de Montmartre is worth visiting, and the views from near Sacré-Cœur are fantastic.

Where to stay: Montmartre is less convenient for the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and other major sights. The hills and stairs also make luggage difficult. I would stay here for the atmosphere, not because it’s a practical sightseeing base. For easier access, look near Abbesses or Lamarck-Caulaincourt Métro stations.

Exterior of Le Relais Montmartre hotel in Paris.

Le Relais Montmartre has a good location near Rue Lepic and Moulin Rouge, below the steepest part of the hill.

7. The 1st Arrondissement

Louvre Pyramid in the 1st arrondissement of Paris.
Map of the 1st arrondissement in Paris.

Best for sightseeing and luxury hotels. The 1st arrondissement puts you close to the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, Palais-Royal, and Seine. Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle are within walking distance on Île de la Cité, while Saint-Germain is just across the river.

The Louvre, Musée de l’Orangerie, and Palais-Royal gardens are major highlights. The Châtelet-Les Halles transport hub is useful for crossing Paris and reaching Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Where to stay: I prefer the streets around Palais-Royal and the Louvre. The area is expensive, but it’s hard to find a more convenient sightseeing base. Les Halles has more shopping and transport connections, though it is busier and less attractive than the streets around Palais-Royal.

Mandarin Oriental Paris hotel exterior.

Mandarin Oriental Paris is a luxury hotel on Rue Saint-Honoré, close to the Tuileries Garden and designer shopping.

8. The 8th Arrondissement

Grand Palais in the 8th arrondissement of Paris.
Map of the 8th arrondissement in Paris.

Best for luxury hotels, designer shopping, and the Champs-Élysées. The 8th has some of the finest hotels in Paris, particularly around Avenue George V, Avenue Montaigne, and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

The Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and La Galerie Dior are the main attractions.

Where to stay: This is a good choice if you’re booking a luxury hotel and want upscale shopping nearby. I don’t love the Champs-Élysées itself as a place to spend evenings; it’s busy, commercial, and less intimate than Saint-Germain or the Marais. The quieter streets just off the main avenues are more appealing.

Exterior of Four Seasons George V in Paris.

The five-star Four Seasons George V is our favorite luxury hotel in Paris.

9. The 16th Arrondissement

View of the Eiffel Tower from Trocadéro in the 16th arrondissement.
Map of the 16th arrondissement in Paris.

Best for quiet luxury hotels, Trocadéro, and families who want a residential neighborhood. The 16th is one of Paris’s most affluent districts. It’s less lively than Saint-Germain or the Marais, but has elegant streets, parks, and some excellent hotels.

Trocadéro has one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower. The neighborhood also includes the Fondation Louis Vuitton in the Bois de Boulogne, Musée Marmottan Monet, and Aquarium de Paris.

Where to stay: Trocadéro and Passy are the most convenient parts of the 16th for sightseeing. The western and southern parts are farther from the main attractions. I would choose this area for a particular hotel, a quieter stay, or easy access to Roland-Garros and Parc des Princes, not as my first choice for a general Paris vacation.

For the stadiums, Molitor Hotel & Spa Paris – MGallery is the luxury choice, while ibis Styles Paris 16 Boulogne is a cheaper alternative.

Exterior of Shangri-La Paris hotel.

Shangri-La Paris occupies a former princely residence, with Eiffel Tower views from many rooms and suites.

10. Montparnasse (14th Arrondissement)

Montparnasse neighborhood in Paris.
Map of Montparnasse in Paris.

Best for affordable hotels, classic brasseries, and a less touristy stay. Montparnasse is a good option for return visitors and travelers who want more hotel for their money. It’s not as pretty as Saint-Germain or Montmartre, but there are plenty of restaurants, shops, and useful transport connections.

The neighborhood’s famous brasseries include La Rotonde, Le Dôme, and La Coupole. Nearby attractions include Montparnasse Cemetery, the Musée Bourdelle, and the Paris Catacombs. Book Catacombs tickets ahead.

Where to stay: The streets near Vavin and Edgar Quinet are more appealing than the immediate surroundings of Gare Montparnasse. The station is useful for trains to western France, but I wouldn’t choose a hotel beside it unless I needed an early departure.

My wife and I at the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

My wife and I at the Eiffel Tower.

Other Places to Stay in and Around Paris

  • Canal Saint-Martin (10th Arrondissement)
    A good choice for cafés, bars, and a younger neighborhood atmosphere. The streets around the canal and Rue Beaurepaire are especially appealing. Hotels tend to be cheaper than in Saint-Germain or the Marais. The area is also convenient for Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est. Good choices include ibis Canal Saint-Martin, Hôtel Hor, and Hotel Whistler.
  • Parc de la Villette (19th Arrondissement)
    Best for families visiting the Cité des Sciences or travelers attending events at the Philharmonie de Paris or Zénith Paris. The park and Canal de l’Ourcq are worth visiting, but I would not stay here for a first sightseeing trip.
  • Belleville and Père Lachaise (20th Arrondissement)
    Good for budget accommodation, restaurants, street art, and a neighborhood feel. Père Lachaise Cemetery is a major attraction. Babel Belleville is a good boutique option, and The People Belleville is a popular hostel. Better for repeat visitors than first-timers.
  • La Défense
    Paris’s modern business district is west of the city, connected by Métro Line 1 and RER A. Stay here for business, an event at Paris La Défense Arena, or a significantly cheaper luxury hotel. It’s not where I would stay for a typical Paris vacation. Good options include citizenM, Meliá, and Renaissance.
  • Disneyland Paris
    An easy day trip from central Paris on RER A to Marne-la-Vallée–Chessy. The resort has two parks, Disneyland Park and Disney Adventure World. If you’re spending two or more days at Disney, staying near the parks makes sense. There are Disney hotels and cheaper options nearby. Hôtel l’Elysée Val d’Europe is a good off-site choice.
  • Versailles
    The Palace of Versailles is an easy day trip from Paris. I would only stay overnight if you want more time to explore the palace, gardens, and town. The luxury choices are Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace and Airelles Le Grand Contrôle. Hôtel du Jeu de Paume is a less expensive option near the palace.
  • Paris Airport Hotels
    Stay at an airport only for a very early flight, a late arrival, or a short overnight connection. Orly is connected to central Paris by Métro Line 14, so an airport hotel is rarely necessary for sightseeing. Novotel Paris Cœur d’Orly is a convenient choice for an early Orly departure. At Charles de Gaulle, I like the Sheraton Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Hotel, inside Terminal 2. It’s especially convenient for Terminal 2 flights and the airport train station.
Our room at Sheraton Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Hotel.

Our room at the Sheraton Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport Hotel. A convenient choice for an early flight from Terminal 2.

About Santorini Dave

Santorini Dave in Athens, Greece Santorini Dave was started in 2011 when I posted a short guide to visiting Santorini with kids. Now, my site publishes regularly updated guides to Santorini, Naxos, Paros, Mykonos, Crete, Athens, and all of Greece.

Questions? Email me at dave@santorinidave.com.

  1. Do I Need Air Conditioning in Paris in August?

    I’m booking a hotel for a trip in August and have found a charming, highly rated hotel that looks perfect, but it doesn’t have A/C. Is this a deal-breaker? I’m not used to extreme heat. How hot can it get in Paris?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes. For a trip in August, air conditioning is non-negotiable. Do not book a hotel without it.

      Parisian summers can be intensely hot and humid, and recent years have brought frequent, record-breaking heatwaves. Old Parisian apartment buildings are designed to retain heat, which means that during a hot spell, rooms without A/C become stiflingly hot, even at night. It can make sleeping impossible and ruin your trip.

      A hotel that offers only a fan is not an acceptable substitute. It will just circulate hot air around the room. As someone not acclimated to intense heat, you will be deeply uncomfortable. When searching for hotels, make “Air Conditioning” the very first filter you apply. It is the most important amenity for a summer visit.

  2. How to Get Hotel Room with Eiffel Tower Views

    It’s my dream to wake up and see the Eiffel Tower from my hotel room. When I search for hotels, it’s hard to tell which ones actually have a view. How can I guarantee a room with a view, and which neighborhoods are best for this without being ridiculously expensive?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Having an Eiffel Tower view from your room is a fantastic dream, but you need to be very strategic to make it a reality. Hotels with these views are rare, in high demand, and expensive.

      Here’s my advice:
      • Book the specific room category: You must book a room that is explicitly named “Eiffel Tower View Room” or “Room with Balcony and Eiffel Tower View.” You cannot book a standard room and ask for a view in the “special requests” box. It will not happen. The hotel sells these views at a significant premium.

      • Look in the right neighborhoods: The best Eiffel views are found in hotels in the 7th, 8th, 15th, and 16th arrondissements. The 7th is closest, while others offer stunning panoramic views from a greater distance.

      • Manage expectations: Be aware that “view” can mean anything from a partial glimpse if you lean out the window to a full, head-on view from a private terrace. Read reviews and look at traveler photos for the specific room category you plan to book.

      • Consider an alternative: For the price of one night in a top-tier view room, you could stay in a lovely hotel without a view and enjoy dinner or drinks at a rooftop bar with a spectacular view. This is often better value.

  3. Paris Hotels for Families

    Hi Dave,

    My family of 4 and my sister’s family of 5 are travelling to Paris from LDN via the Eurostar mid July.
    We were hoping to find a comfortable but not too pricey under $1000/night hotel near major sites like the Louvre etc.
    It is important that there is working air conditioning and if possible a mini fridge or even a little kitchenette. My daughter has severe peanut allergies so we are trying to find
    safe options for her. Any ideas would be wonderful.

    A few hotels we had looked at were:
    -Pullman Eiffel
    -Maison Mere
    -Astotel 34b
    -Perhaps one of the Citadines, but didn’t see great pictures of those on TripAdvisor.

    Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Finding comfortable spots with AC, a fridge, and ideally a kitchenette near the major sites under $1000/night per family unit is achievable, but booking soon for mid-July is key.

      Given your daughter’s severe peanut allergy, I strongly recommend prioritizing aparthotels as having a kitchenette will be invaluable for preparing safe meals and snacks.

      Despite your hesitation about Citadines pictures, locations like Citadines Les Halles Paris (close to the Louvre) or Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés are generally good for families with essential amenities including AC and kitchenettes. Perhaps also look into Apartments du Louvre St Honoré which offers multi-bedroom serviced apartments. If a full kitchenette isn’t essential but you still need AC, fridges, and space for each family, booking two connecting rooms is a great alternative. The Pullman Eiffel Tower offers family rooms configured this way, and Astotel 34B also has specific family/duplex room, though I think these lack cooking facilities.

      Whichever route you choose, contact the hotel or aparthotel directly before booking to confirm the exact room/bed configuration, and most importantly, clearly communicate the details of the peanut allergy to ensure they are aware and can advise on any included food services like breakfast. Hope that helps.

  4. Hotel for First Time Visitors to Paris

    Hi Dave, You are the absolute best! Thanks for saving me hours on research.

    Can you please let me know if Aparthotel Adagio Paris Centre and the area it is located in will be suitable for first timers to Paris? We are a family of four – two older teenagers.

    Thanks,
    Manda

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Aparthotel Adagio has a great location, close to several metro stations and an easy walk to the Eiffel Tower. I find Adagio hotels are consistently good value though don’t be expecting anything too fancy. Service can often be lackluster, but your suite/apartment should be solidly three-star.

  5. Paris Apartment for Tourists

    Hello.

    We are Short Stay Paris Apartments in central Paris and we have large serviced apartments fully equipped with kitchen, laundry, and patio. Pets allowed too. We have an “Excellent” score of 4.5 on TripAdvisor.

    If your readers need large, clean, well located apartments for couples or families please consider us.

    Thank you.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I’ve never stayed here, but great location for sure.

  6. Good Affordable Hotel for First Time Visitor

    Thank you for all the extremely helpful travel advice! I am surprising my daughter with a trip to Paris for her graduation (not this summer though due to Covid we are delaying it). I am wondering if you could recommend what are the best neighborhoods for us to stay in that are great for a first-time trip – central, touristy, and very safe (what areas to avoid would be helpful as she gets nervous easily). Our budget is for the lower to moderate range. Her main desire is to see the Louvre, Palais Garnier, Eiffel Tower, visit the cafes and wander around. Any specific areas or hotels would be greatly appreciated.
    Thank you in advance.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I think the Welcome Hotel in the St. Germain area is great. Good value and good rates. Walking distance to many top attractions (including all the ones you mention – though metro is an easy option too).

  7. Less Touristy Area of Paris

    Hi, Dave!

    You have an amazing site! Thanks for all your hard work putting it together! I’m trying to plan a week-long solo trip to Paris in either late May or early June. I’ve been to Paris before but this will be my first visit by myself. I’m so excited but also nervous, since I’ll be going it alone! We stayed in St. Germain before & loved it but I do know a tiny bit of French & I love food, so I’m willing to branch out of the super touristy areas. I’m thinking of staying in the 11th but you mentioned a lot of options that sound amazing! Thoughts? And any tips on travelling alone in Paris?

    Thanks so much for your time!
    Peter

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The 11th is a great choice – I love that area. Less touristy but still an easy walk to the Marais and the central sights.

  8. Interesting Towns Near Paris

    My husband & I are making a trip to Paris in early June. We only plan to stay the last 3 nights in Paris itself to enjoy the city. This is our second visit to Paris, the first one we did the Eiffel, Seine, Louvre, & Versailles. For the first 6 days, I would like to ask what other towns you would recommend we travel to nearby Paris to get a beautiful French experience?
    We welcome nature, scenery, gourmet, wine and foodie experiences. And whatever you may highly recommend. We are good to take 1-3 hours train to other towns nearby and stay 1-2 nights at various places. Looking forward to reading suggestions.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      There are many charming towns within a 1-3 hour train ride. If you don’t plan on renting a car, I’d recommend exploring the Loire Valley. It’s known for vineyards and wine, several Michelin starred restaurants, rolling hills, lovely architecture, and chateaux. Amboise is a popular destination with a walkable city center, a few gourmet restaurants, a nice farmers market and a beautiful castle to explore. Parts of the city have retained a medieval feel, which is part of its popularity as well as its connection to Leonardo da Vinci (he spent his last years in Amboise). Many people use it as a base to visit other nearby towns like Blois, Tours and Chambord. Vendome is another option with the Michelin starred restaurant Pertica, walkable city center and stunning cathedral. And if you wanted to travel further out Nantes on the coast is about a 2 hour train ride. There you’ll have great seafood as well as the wine region of Muscadet. It’s one of the bigger cities in France with a more relaxed and artsy vibe compared to Paris. There are also many cultural options such as the Chateau des ducs de Bretagne, Musee des Beaux Arts, Cathedral Saint Pierre as well as the nearby beaches of La Baule and Pornic which are accessible by train. Die-hard foodies would want to make a visit to the neighboring Guerande salt marshes, where the best salt in France comes from, is used by the best chefs and is an important ingredient in French butter.

  9. Cheap Places To Stay In Paris

    Can you recommend some good affordable hotels (2 or 3 stars) in central Paris? We are a couple in our 30s hoping to visit the top sights over 4 days in Paris. We are on a moderate budget.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Paris has lots of value options, so it’s best to choose which area you want to be in and go from there. If you want to stay on the Left Bank (but away from pricier neighborhoods like Saint Germain), I recommend the Latin Quarter. It’s walking distance to several monuments, has lively parts like the Rue Mouffetard, and many metro connections to get you around the city. One solid 3 star is the Hotel des Nations Saint Germain. If you’d like to be in a more residential area for a local Parisian feel, you can opt for a little further south and try the bustling but away from the touristsy neighborhood around Alesia in the 14th. It’s a part of the city that offers a normal slice of life and where 30 something professionals and young families live. One choice there is the lovely boutique property Hotel Max. On the other side of the river, I suggest the Hotel Chopin in the centrally located 2nd arrondissement. Located inside one of the city’s historic galleries from the 1800s, it’s a moderately priced hotel with a lot of charm. The immediate area is touristy (think Hard Rock Café) but the location can’t be beat. If you’re looking for a trendier area with more nightlife and has a more Parisian feel without the higher prices of the Marais, check out South Pigalle. Still a little rough around the edges, this area has a lot to offer in terms of bars, restaurants, local character and value, and a good bet is the Hotel Saint Louis Pigalle.

  10. Where To Stay in Paris with Kids

    Hi!
    I have a family of 2 adults, 3 kids between 10 and 1-year-old. We are traveling in June for 3 nights. This is our first time in Paris and looking at Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel. Can you recommend which area is better for us for sightseeing? We, of course, want to see the Eiffel tower, but I’d like an area to walk around and take in the architecture and city feeling.

    Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      If your priority is to take in the vibrancy of Parisian city life, then I recommend the Citadines. The area is charming and feels a bit off the beaten path while still being a 10-minute walk to tons of shops and restaurants. The Pullman is a terrific hotel with fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower, but that part of the city is more residential. The distances to things like the metro, shops, etc are spaced out more which might be harder on young children. Also, if you stay at the Citadines you’ll be walking distance to Notre Dame Cathedral, the Roman ruins in the 5th and Luxembourg Gardens.

  11. Paris Travel in Early May

    We are traveling to Paris for the first time during the first week of May and I’m just realizing it may not be a good time to go because of major holidays. Should we reschedule for another time or will it still be worth it?

    Thank you!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      May is a tricky month to visit, but if your plans are set you shouldn’t be dissuaded. Especially if you’re staying in Paris (vs. visiting smaller towns in France) you should be fine. The big holiday to watch out for is May 1, Labor Day. Many things will be shut down and if it’s a smaller mom and pop shop, many Parisians like to do what they call “faire le pont” – making the bridge or rather turning it into a long weekend. Supermarkets, the metro, etc. will still be open and running, they just might have modified hours or run on a slightly slower schedule. If you have your heart set on any particular restaurants, make sure they’ll be open and book in advance if possible. The rest of your stay should be fine. If you’re still in Paris on May 8 (V-E) day, this is less impactful for tourists and shops will be open.

  12. Best Area to Stay in Paris for Couple

    Hi
    I have booked a surprise 3 night trip for my wife’s 40th to Paris. We’ve never been to Paris before so I’m not sure where would be best to stay for a special birthday. I’ve found a nice looking apartment but it’s right on the main street at Pigalle metro. However what I’ve read about Pigalle puts me off. I’ve also been looking at Montmartre but have seen mixed reviews of there too. We usually love wandering a bit off the beaten track, ignoring maps and exploring. Can you recommend an area that’d be suitable as a base for a special birthday? Any suggestions would be appreciated.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      In my opinion, the area around Pigalle is a mixed bag. It’s known as the former red light district and some people would find it a bit dodgy. However over the past few years South Pigalle has emerged as one of the coolest areas in Paris, with a more residential feel and away from all the tourists. There are plenty of safe and lovely areas to wander around especially if you stick to the areas south of Boulevard de Clichy. That said, if you’ve never been to Paris before it’s probably better for seasoned visitors. If you’re looking for something romantic to celebrate your wife’s birthday Montmartre is beautiful with picturesque views and tons of charming, winding streets. The only downside is that if you’re planning to get around Paris by metro, you’re stuck with only one metro line (the line 12) which is fine, but expect to make lots of transfers if you want to see some sights and plan on a bit more travel time since Montmartre is further out. Most first timers prefer to stay on the Left Bank (the 5th, 6th, or 7th) since it’s known for being more central, closer to sights, and has all the typical architecture and charm people associate with Paris.

  13. Where To Stay in Paris in December

    Hi there,
    Am planning a girls’ trip to Paris for my 50th birthday in December. Looking to rent a condo or townhouse for a week. We all enjoy great food and wine, shopping, art. Where would you recommend that has a real Paris feel, but with access to great restaurants and cafes, along with grocery stores or markets and the metro. I was looking at Marais and Eiffel Tower area, but maybe Saint-Germain is a better choice?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I would go with the Marais or something in and around Rue Cler (not far from the Eiffel Tower) – both have a great vibe and feel very Parisian. The Marais is trendier with better nightlife. I also love the Rue Cler area, more like a little village in the middle of the city. Saint Germain is wonderful and a little more central but also more touristy.

  14. Best Area to Stay in Paris in August

    Hi Dave. Planning a trip to Paris last week of June, first week of August or sometime around then but did read your comment about lots shutting down in August . Have been reading a bit but it all sounds so good so wondering if you can recommend areas to stay. I love food, people, second hand vintage shops, street markets, watching the world go by, bit of a bohemian vibe. I’ll be travelling on my own but like to get in and live like the locals do. Kind regards Sandra.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Marais is my favorite area of Paris and sounds like it should be great for what you’re interested in. Don’t worry too much about everything being closed in August. I do like to warn readers so they’re not disappointed but Paris is still great fun. If it’s your first time to Paris it will likely just seem “normal” – and far from dead or boring.

  15. Staying in Montmartre

    Hello – first time travellers to Paris. I found what I thought was a great hostel in Montmartre (with great reviews). However the travel agent we organised our flights (and other associated things for our trip) has strongly recommended that we AVOID the Montmartre area. I have not seen anything online to substantiate his thoughts. Is this area unsafe?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I love Montmartre – especially away from the main tourist areas.

  16. Trip to Paris and Lourdes

    Hi Dave,
    I just discovered your website and I find it very helpful. I’m planning a trip to Paris with my family of 4 adults in mid-February for 9 days to explore Paris and visit Lourdes for a day or two. My mom is traveling with us and she’s 87 yrs old but still able to walk around without assistance. What is the best transportation for us to get to Lourdes and what area in Paris would you recommend for us to stay? It’s our first time and would like to see most of the tourist spots in Paris. Is it cheaper to stay in an apartment or mid-range hotel?
    Your time is greatly appreciated.
    Thanks,
    Mariz

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      If you’re traveling to Lourdes, I have a few suggestions. Since your mother probably wouldn’t be comfortable doing a long distance train ride, I think it’s best to do a combination of flying and train. There are multiple flights from Charles De Gaulle airport to Toulouse, and from there you’ll have a 2-hour train ride. Or, you can fly to Pau which has fewer flights from Paris but the train ride to Lourdes is only 30 minutes. For first times visitors to Paris, the 7th, the 1st or Saint Germain are all great options. Saint Germain has a bit more charm, but also tends to be more expensive. The 7th has the Eiffel Tower and the charming Rue Cler neighborhood. In the 1st you’ll have easy access to the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and Place Vendome as well as better dining options. Parts of it feel somewhat commercial though, so each area has its pros and cons. There is no easy rule for apartments vs hotels in Paris. It really depends on the place (and the rates, of course).

  17. What Area of Paris to Stay with Toddler

    Hi,
    I am planning to visit Paris on a weekend trip (i.e reaching Friday night and leaving Sunday afternoon) from London via the Eurostar train with my wife and 1-year-old boy. We are planning to come in the 2nd week of November. We are planning to see the Eiffel Tower and Louvre museum definitely plus other attractions if time permits. This will be our first visit and we will visit again in the future. Which area you suggest we stay considering a toddler is with us?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Many different areas of Paris would be a good fit but I’d probably suggest the 7th arrondissement, and Rue Cler specifically, as my top choice.

  18. Non-Touristy Area of Paris

    Looking at staying in Paris for 2-4 weeks in May/June. We have stayed before, most recently last year for 5 days in 9th arrondisement and we loved it. Where would be a great area to stay without the tourist sights as we have done these previously? We are mid to late 60’s and love walking, day and night, obviously use metro and buses. Love food, wine, markets. Been to Le Baron Rouge and loved the Marche d’Aligre and the covered market Marche Beauvau. Would really appreciate any ideas or feedback. Still deciding on how long to stay. We have stayed in smaller towns, villages and other cities in France but have never done a long stay in Paris.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      There are many great areas to stay in Paris that aren’t too touristy. I love the 11th. With parts of it bordering the Northern Marais, you’re still central enough to walk lots of places while being in an area known as a foodie destination and its low key vibe. If you don’t mind being further out, the 18th/Montmartre is a bit more residential but still close to good transport. Montmartre in general has a village like feel to it and the areas around Abbesses or Lamarck-Caulaincourt are particularly nice. And if you liked the 9th, there are a few different areas you might like. The best is near Rue des Martyrs (a fantastic street known for its food and restaurants) and on Friday nights there’s a good farmer’s market at the park at Anvers.

  19. Paris Over Easter

    Dave,

    We (two adults and a 10-year-old) have an opportunity for a Paris trip, April 20 to 28. Our goal is to eat and bike around and wander through Paris for 8 days (and see a few sights). But April 21 is Easter Sunday and the following day a national holiday. What is Paris like over Easter? Would you recommend stopping off somewhere else on the way (e.g. London or Lisboa) and showing up in Paris on Monday evening?

    Many thanks,
    Paul

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      It’s not as dead as you’d think. There are a surprising amount of things open on Easter Sunday, especially in the more touristy areas. Food shops (even the small mom and pop stores) and supermarkets stay open to accommodate people’s Easter Sunday needs. I recommend the pastry and chocolate shops, in particular, as they often stay open and usually do special window displays for the occasion. Some restaurants might be closed, while others will offer an Easter brunch menu. And if you’re traveling with a 10-year old, there’s lots of activities for kids at that time too. The Paris Tourism board has a list of Easter egg hunts, concerts, etc. that are planned for the Easter holiday.

  20. Visiting Versailles and Paris

    I am heading to Paris September 24-27th staying in the Latin Quarter area. This is my first time there and have all the tourist things on my list. Should I visit Versailles on Tuesday or wait and go Wednesday or Thursday to avoid crowds? Is it easy to get around walking and or by metro?
    thank you

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      If you’re not booking tickets or a tour in advance then check the weather on arrival and go to Versailles on the best day. If you are booking a tour then go Tuesday. Getting around Paris by a combination of metro and walking is easy and what I recommend.

  21. Where To Stay for One Night in Paris

    Hi Dave,

    We (4 adults) fly into ORLY at 8pm and depart from CDG at 11 the next morning. What are your suggestions for a very moderately priced hotel near public transportation for easy access to both Paris airports? Also, we’d like a good dinner (not too expensive) in Paris to cap our visit to Europe. Suggestions, please!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      I think your best bet is to stay somewhere near the RER B train for easy access to both the train that goes directly out to Charles De Gaulle and the Antony station which connects you to the Orlyval shuttle train. The area around the RER B and metro station called Denfert-Rochereau has many reasonably priced hotels, is within walking distance to a few sights, and is a low key residential area popular with Parisian families. If you don’t mind walking a short distance, there is even more choice and commercial activity around Alesia or Mouton-Duvernet. For restaurants, try the Creperie Josseline near the Montparnasse Tower? They have savory versions (called galettes) which are extra hearty since this place is known for their double thick style crepes. It’s good value, a lively ambiance, and not too far from the area suggested. They’re also open later than most restaurants and close at 11:30pm (most Paris kitchens close around 10pm).

  22. Where To Stay in Paris near Eurostar to London

    Hi Dave,

    My wife and I will be visiting Paris in October this year. We planned to take Eurostar from London. Which area near the train station would you recommend for us to stay? We will be staying 4 to 5 days and would like to see as much as we can during our stay.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Gare du Nord (where the Eurostar from London arrives and departs) is in the 10th arrondissement of Paris, so of the nearby areas, I would recommend either Canal Saint Martin or South Pigalle. Canal Saint Martin is cool and hip with a young vibe. Lots of options for great food, bakeries (Du Pains et Des Idees is a must), canalside bars and restaurants. In warmer months you’ll see young Parisians having picnics and BBQs here. It’s a nice area to walk around and you’ll also have great metro access at Republique. South Pigalle, which is one of the more up and coming areas, is also a great choice. Lots of boutique hotels have been opening up around here because it has a cool, off-the-beaten-path vibe. It also skews hip, but you’ll see a mix of young families, professionals, and it’s one of the nicer residential areas of Paris. Though it borders the former red light district, it’s totally safe. Plus the Rue des Martyrs is a fantastic street for food, some cool boutiques, and lots of low key bistros. You won’t have the same metro accessibility as Canal Saint Martin, but you’ll see a more relaxed, less touristy side of Paris and it’s an easy walk to Montmartre.

  23. First Time Paris Where To Stay

    Hi Dave,

    I am traveling for the first time to Paris during the first week of June. It will be my sister, my mother (who cannot walk for long periods of time), and myself. What area would you recommend we stay in? Any budget friendly hotels you would recommend in these areas? Also, this is the first visit for all of us and we are hoping to stay for 3 days but can push it to 4, if necessary. Do you have an itinerary of places that you would say are must see? We are definitely getting tickets for the hop on hop off bus but should we consider purchasing any individual entry tickets for any specific locations? I know that the Hop on Hop off bus limits our time at each location. Anything we should avoid in the more touristy areas or be aware of? Also, what would be the best way to get around once in the city?

    Thank you for your help!

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      For areas to stay in, the 1st or Saint Germain would be my recommendation with a slight lean towards the 1st. Since your mother can’t walk for long periods, it’s best to stay in areas with a high concentration of sights, restaurants, and shopping. The 1st has the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, Palais Royale, and Place Vendome all within an easy walk of each other as well as being right on the river. There are also multiple points in the 1st for the Hop On Hop Off bus. For budget-friendly hotels, you could try the Hôtel de la Place du Louvre, a solid 3 star. Also the further out you go the cheaper things get so if you’re willing to stay in the 2nd, for example, you can save some money. It’s only an extra ten minutes of walking and you’ll have a lot more options for 2 and 3 star hotels. A charming one in the second is the Hotel Chopin inside one of the oldest covered passages in Paris. There isn’t a specific itinerary of places to recommend – you’re probably already planning to go to the big ones like the Eiffel Tower – but you might want to try to add some local character to the major sights. Maybe try going to some of the outdoor markets like at Bastille or Rue Cler, or the pedestrian street Rue Montorgueil. A popular one with Parisians is the Marche des Enfants Rouge, which is in the Marais and also great for shopping. The Hop on Hop off buses are a great way to get a quick overview of the city and actually cover a decent amount of ground. They do not limit your time at each location however – you just get off at say, the Champs Elysees, spend as much time as you want – and then pick up another bus to continue on to the Eiffel Tower. The only limit is that your ticket is valid for 1 day but there are lots of variations. I also strongly suggest doing a river cruise on the Seine and there are many options for those too.

  24. Best Food in Paris

    Hi Dave,
    My husband and I are traveling to Paris on May 18th through the 28th. We will be staying in an apartment in Marais. We don’t want to miss out on any food experiences. Any restaurants you recommend? Food tours? Best macaroons, baguettes, crepes, cheese and wine. Plan on doing the must see museums and sites. We have tickets to the Eiffel Tower on the 21st for our 35th wedding anniversary. Love music and biking. Thank you for your time. Lisa

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      May is one of my favorite times to visit Paris and even better since you’ve bypassed the major holidays that usually shut the city down for the first few weeks of the month. If you’re a foodie, the Marais has some great options. For baguettes and croissants, you definitely have to go to Tout Autour du Pain. They won the best croissant in Paris award as well as placed in the top ten for their baguettes. (After them, a reliable standby is Eric Kayser. Even though it can feel like a chain because he has at least a few bakeries in every arrondissement, the quality is excellent.) The best crepes are also in the Marais at Cafe Breizh. If there’s a line you can do one of two things – either go to the epicerie next door which has a large communal table and the same menu, or go to their newest location in Saint Germain. On Saturdays, check out the Marche des Enfants Rouges which is a fun cross between a farmers market and a variety of food stalls. There’s a little bit of everything food-wise and most stalls have their own tables for dining. For a proper farmers market, you’re also near two great ones – the largest one at Bastille on Thursdays and Sundays but expect it to be bustling and touristy. Or on Tuesdays and Fridays check out the Marche Popincourt. If you’re staying in the Upper Marais, you’re an easy walk to some of the great restaurants in the 11th. This is one of the best arrondissements for the way Parisians eat now – casual vibe, small plates, and natural wines. One that is worth the hype is Clown Bar, but it’s been written up so much you won’t be the only tourists. For a more local version try Aux Deux Amis which is favored by Parisians but has a more hip, fashionista vibe. In the same district you’ve got two excellent must try restaurants – Septime which will be hard to book but worth the effort and Le Chateaubriand which looks completely unassuming but has consistently been voted one of the world’s top 50 restaurants. Both have tasting menus at 80 euros and 75 euros respectively which is considered great value for Michelin caliber food. If you want more classic French, then definitely go to Bistrot Paul Bert. The Marais is also known for its bars and two you should try are Candelaria (a taco joint with a hidden speakeasy) and Mary Celeste a hip cocktail bar with oysters and small plates. For macarons go to Pierre Herme and get their signature flavor called Ispahan (rosewater, raspberry, and lychee). The best cheese shop is Laurent Dubois. An excellent wine shop (that does free tastings and wine classes in English) is La Derniere Goutte in Saint Germain. Or if you’re in that neighborhood be sure to check out the Marche Couvert Saint Germain. There’s a great wine bar called L’avant Comptoir or better still pick up food from the market and take it to the terrace of the wine shop Bacchus + Ariane, order a glass and have your own picnic. And for food tours, take one with Paris by Mouth. They have a Marais food tour but I like all of their neighborhood tours that I’ve taken.

  25. Paris On a Budget / Great Food

    Hi, I am planning to stay in Paris for 5 nights in August. I plan on seeing some of the typical sites (Louvre, Notre Dame, etc) but I also want some of the local vibes- great local restaurants, cafes, boutiques, etc. I am traveling on a budget so right now I have a room booked at the Ibis Paris Gare de Lyon Reuilly – do you think this neighborhood will suffice for what I’m looking for? If not can you please make a recommendation for a different neighborhood (something budget friendly)? Also, can you recommend any “MUST EAT” restaurants while in Paris? As in, it would be wrong to leave Paris without having experienced this food.

    Thank you,
    Jenny

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      You’re actually in a great area for local vibes and have lots of options. The only tricky thing about visiting in August is that the city (partially) shuts down for most of the month, with even many of the big name restaurants taking a few weeks off. So double check that these places are open. In your immediate area, I’d suggest Le Baron Rouge and Red house for bars with a lively, local vibe. Red House has live music and events, Le Baron Rouge is an awesome wine bar that’s great in the evenings and on Sunday afternoons. They’re known for having huge wooden wine casks that you can use to fill your own empty wine bottles. Next to Le Baron Rouge is the Marche d’Aligre and the covered market Marche Beauvau. Both are cheap places to pick up cheese and charcuterie for a simple lunch.

      For restaurants, the one you should try to get into is Septime though it’s tough to get a reservation. If you can’t get in, there is a seafood place and wine bar from the same chef called Clamato and Septime Cave. Otherwise, the other great place to go is Bistrot Paul Bert. Excellent French classics like steak frites with bearnaise. That street has become a foodie destination with a nice wine shop, pastry shop and chocolate store. The place to go for chocolate around there is Alain Ducasse. If you’re willing to travel, go to Patrick Roger. If you want a break from French food there is fantastic Italian at East Mamma or Restaurant Passerini. For a classic French cafe go to Le Pure. If you cross the river to the 13th, you’ll discover a lot of cool venues like Batofar which also have outdoor terraces set up along the riverbank. And for shopping, Merci is a boutique popular with Parisians, as is the department store BHV. Near your hotel though is the Coulee Verte which is the predecessor for New York’s Highline. The large arches of the railroad bridge have been converted to beautiful boutiques with 30m high ceilings and showcase a range of French craftsmen.

  26. Hop On Hop Off Bus / Bookstores in Paris

    Hi Dave. I’ll be traveling with 4 people to Paris after London in late October. We have 3 nights to spend here and definitely would want to see all the highlights (if time permits). I’m still searching for our accommodation, after reading your notes, it really helps. My question: Is it worth it to take the Hop On Hop Off tour bus? Or could we just do it on our own? I’m a reader, definitely would want to visit some bookstore. Do you have any recommendation for Paris bookstores that I could visit? I love to collect some local books whenever I travel.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      Yes, it is absolutely worth it to take the Hop on Hop Off buses. The nice thing about Paris is that it’s relatively compact, so the bus tours allow you to see most of the major highlights in just a few hours if you’re pressed for time. Another way I suggest to see the city is to take one of the boat tours along the Seine. And do it at night if you can, the buildings are particularly pretty with the way they are lit. For bookstores, the most famous one is Shakespeare and Company right off the Seine. With it’s sunlit upstairs, visitors are welcome to sit and read at their leisure, choosing among a large selection of English language titles. It is a bit touristy though, so if you find it too crowded you can try the Librairie Galignani, the first English language bookshop in continental Europe. Or for something different, you can always try La Belle Hortense, a great bookshop and wine bar.

  27. Best Shopping Areas in Paris

    Hi Dave
    Thanks for the info its very helpful. I’m taking my mom and my 9yr daughter to Paris for 3 days at the end of April. What are some good shopping areas or stores? Not looking for famous designers clothing or anything fancy.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      The Marais is great for a trip with a nine-year-old and your mother, as its flat, pedestrian-friendly streets, cool boutiques, and the park at Place des Vosges offer a nice balance of shopping and places to rest. If you prefer classic department stores, the area around Galeries Lafayette and Printemps is fantastic for its grand architecture and wide selection, with high-end brands inside and budget chains like H&M and Uniqlo right outside on Boulevard Haussmann. Another excellent local option is BHV Marais, which is much less touristy and easier to navigate with family; keep in mind that the automatic 10% passport discount is no longer standard, though non-EU shoppers can still claim the 12% VAT tax refund on purchases over €100. For a fun detour off the beaten path, skip Passage des Panoramas and head into nearby Passage Jouffroy, which kids love for its vintage toy stores, old bookstores, and wax museum. If you want luxury shopping in a less crowded setting, check out Le Bon Marché on the Left Bank or the beautifully restored La Samaritaine near Pont Neuf.

  28. Where To Stay in Paris First Time

    What area of Paris is best for first timer? We really haven’t planned our stay (late April) but have 3 days in Paris and want to visit the highlights. Prefer to be able to walk everywhere. Is there one neighborhood that makes airport access (CDG) easy? As well as being close to museums, good restaurants, and casual nightlife?

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      There are a few neighborhoods I’d recommend for first timers. The 7th is great because you’re close to the Eiffel Tower, great neighborhood restaurants and the charming Rue Cler market street. However some first timers prefer Saint Germain as it’s a little more lively and you’ll have more nightlife options like jazz clubs and wine bars. The Louvre is a short walk across the river as well as Notre Dame. For airport access, you might consider the area around Opera. It’s a major hub for tourists and a drop off point for the shuttle buses that run directly from CDG. There are plenty of great restaurants and you’re also close to all the big department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps.

  29. Safe Areas To Stay in Paris

    Hi Dave,

    We are 3 couples with 1 1-year plus baby and are planning to go to Paris in May next year. We find it hard to get a safe location because every time we found a good lodging, the location seems dodgy. Also, I read some review saying that near 7th is to be avoided. Any advice? This will be our first time there too.

    1. Santorini Dave The Hotel Expert

      All areas in central Paris are safe for tourists and definitely the 7th (not sure what you’ve been reading but it’s wrong).

  30. Best Paris Neighborhood for Family of 4

    Hi, we are a family with 4 (2 sons aged 15 and 18), planning to make first visit to Paris between 17-20 Dec, through London. Like to visit those top tourism places such as Eiffel Tower, the Seine plus spend a day in Disneyland (since this is their 25th anniversary this year). Can you suggest a suitable neighborhood for us to hunt for accommodation via Airbnb?

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